Geographic Information System (GIS) technology will be celebrated with displays, contests, and interactive learning experiences on Wednesday, November 14. GIS Day will be held at the City of Toledo, Department of Engineering Services at One Lake Erie Center from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Students and anyone interested in how data and mapping technologies have merged into new visually accessible systems is invited to stop in.

A GIS is a computer-based mapping tool that takes information from a database about a location – such as streets, buildings, water lines, and sewer system – and turns it into visual layers. The ability to see geographic features on a map gives users a better understanding of a particular location, enabling planners, analysts, and others to make informed decisions about their communities.

TMACOG uses GIS in all planning and analysis. A map showing high accident locations can now include information about the types of accidents that occur at any location. Watershed maps can now have layers that show existing sewer lines, population, and land use.

The coordination committee for the Toledo area GIS Day includes the City of Toledo, TMACOG, ODOT, Northwestern Water and Sewer District, Fulton County, and Penta Career Center.